Wujiaqu

Wujiaqu is the seat of the Sixth Division of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. It is about 30–50 km from Urumqi, and the drive usually takes around 1 hour. Here you can learn about military reclamation culture and enjoy waterside scenery, making it suitable for a day trip from Urumqi or nearby cities, or for a short weekend break.

• Qinggeda Lake Tourist Scenic Area: Built around Mengjin Reservoir, this is a national 4A-level scenic area. In spring, you can see millions of tulips; in summer, you can visit more than 500 mu of lotus ponds; in autumn, it is good for watching migratory birds; and in winter, there is an ice and snow park. The scenic area has no admission or parking fees. Inside, there are attractions such as a beach area, high-altitude bungee jumping, and a small train, making it suitable for family trips and camping.

• Yiwanquan: Located below Wanquan Peak in the Tianshan Mountains, it has an average summer temperature of only 24°C, making it a good place to escape the heat. The area has lush grassland, mountain springs, streams, and unusual rocks that together create a natural landscape. Driving there makes it easier to explore the surroundings.
• Sa外 Water Village: This is a leisure farm combining fruit and vegetable picking, camping, and family activities. Visitors can pick cucumbers and tomatoes, dig sweet potatoes, and take part in other farming experiences. They can also observe small animals up close, making it suitable for families looking to relax over the weekend.

• Military Reclamation Park: The park is located in the urban area of Wujiaqu. It is not large, but its leisure facilities are fairly complete, including a rubber running track and shaded rest areas. It is a good place to observe how local residents spend their leisure time and to get a sense of military reclamation culture within the city environment.

Suggested Itinerary

• Day 1: Leisure Trip to Qinggeda Lake
  • Morning: Depart from Urumqi and arrive at Qinggeda Lake Tourist Scenic Area after about 1 hour. After entering the park, you can rent a multi-person electric cart or bicycles to circle the lake and enjoy the wetland scenery along the way.
  • Noon: Have a simple meal near the scenic area or at the lakeside camping area, or bring your own food for a picnic.
  • Afternoon: Take children to the beach area to dig in the sand and play by the water. You can also choose activities such as high-altitude bungee jumping or glass rafting. If you plan to photograph the lake, go to the lakeside in the evening to enjoy the orange-toned sunset.
  • Evening: Return to downtown Wujiaqu and try rattan pepper spicy chicken or big-plate chicken, then take a walk in Binhu Park.
• Day 2: Cooling Off and In-Depth Cultural Tour
  • Morning: Drive to Yiwanquan or Sa外 Water Village to experience the cooler climate at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains and take part in picking activities.
  • Afternoon: Return to the city to visit the Division-City Museum. It is recommended to confirm opening hours before setting out so you can learn about the history of the Corps’ development. You can also visit Military Reclamation Park and General Street to experience Wujiaqu’s urban character.
  • Evening: Go to the 102nd Regiment area to try 2-yuan grilled skewers and freshly pulled yellow noodles, and get a feel for the local food and everyday atmosphere.

Recommended Local Foods

• Guaixiaomian Rattan Pepper Spicy Chicken: This is an innovative dish with local Wujiaqu character. It uses free-range chicken as the main ingredient, with green Sichuan peppercorns and chili, giving it both numbing fragrance and fresh spiciness. It can be paired with wild mushrooms or naan so the ingredients fully absorb the broth.
• 102nd Regiment Freshly Pulled Yellow Noodles with Grilled Skewers: The yellow noodles are hand-pulled on site in the shop and have a firm, springy texture. They are served with a slightly sour, aromatic soup base. The skewers are grilled over charcoal and cost 2 yuan each, with a mix of lean and fatty meat. You can also mix the skewers into the yellow noodles.
• Kuazhang Big-Plate Chicken: The portions are generous. The potatoes become soft and sticky after stewing, while the chicken is chewy but not dry. Wide noodles and huajuan naan can soak up the rich sauce. You can also try dry-fried chicken. Overall, the flavors are fragrant, numbing, and spicy.
• Old-Style Northeastern Guobaorou: Wujiaqu has a restaurant that makes Northeastern guobaorou. The dish has a crisp outer coating that does not easily soften even after sitting for a while, and it has a clear vinegar aroma when eaten. Portions are generous and prices are affordable.

Transportation and Accommodation Guide

• Transportation: It takes about 1 hour to drive from downtown Urumqi to Wujiaqu, and road conditions along the way are generally good. If taking public transport, you can board a direct bus to Wujiaqu Bus Station near the Urumqi Railway Bureau metro station; the journey takes about 1.5 hours. After arriving in the city, you can take bus No. 1, No. 5, or No. 8 to the main attractions.
• Accommodation: Wujiaqu’s urban area is not large, and hotels are mainly concentrated within the city. Staying near Binhu Park or the city center makes it convenient to reach attractions and dining areas. If you want more complete facilities, you can choose the Wyndham Wujiaqu, which has well-equipped amenities and a swimming pool, making it suitable for family trips.

Things to Note

• Sun and Wind Protection: Xinjiang has strong ultraviolet rays, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat should be prepared in every season. Areas such as lakesides and grasslands can be windy, so it is recommended to bring a windproof jacket.
• Mosquito Protection: In summer, there are many mosquitoes around Qinggeda Lake and the wetlands. Bring mosquito repellent and try to wear long pants.
• Confirm Opening Hours: Venues such as the Division-City Museum and cultural centers may be temporarily closed for maintenance. Before traveling, confirm opening information through official channels or map listings.
• Safety: When visiting Qinggeda Lake, do not swim in the lake without permission, and do not enter tidal flats or shore areas that are not yet open. The lake depth and underwater conditions are fairly complex, so pay attention to personal safety.
• Vehicle Rental: Qinggeda Lake Tourist Scenic Area is large. After entering, it is recommended to rent a multi-person electric cart or bicycles, as walking long distances can be tiring.